What is CVV in Debit Card & Where to Find it?

In order to check the authenticity of a Debit Card, the card has specific features. Card verification value (CVV) is a combination of many features used in Debit Cards for the purpose of establishing your identity. This helps in minimising the risk of theft and fraud. You might also know CVV by other names, like card verification code (CVC) or card security code (CSC).

What is CVV in Debit Card? 

You might observe that there are two components to the CVV. The first code is recorded by the card issuer in a magnetic stripe. The long black stripe at the back of your Debit Card contains a large amount of data. The code is recovered by sliding the card through a magnetic stripe reader that reads your data to establish your unique identity.

You can think of CVV as an essential security feature. This feature ensures that only the actual physical holder of the card can use it remotely and that someone who has gotten only the card number and some personal information cannot provide this value without the actual card. So, even if your confidential financial information is leaked, Debit Card transactions cannot take place without the physical presence of the card. The information on the card, stored in the form of a magnetic tape, contains your data that is essential to any Debit Card transaction.

CVV codes are generated by the issuer, i.e. the bank the following information on your card-

• Bank Card Number
• Service Code
• Expiration date
• Unique code: This is known only to the issuer, e. the bank. This is then converted to a decimal code to create a three or four-digit code to be printed at the back of your card.

Where can you find CVV on your Debit Card?

If you use a VISA or MasterCard, you will find that the CVV printed contains a three-digit code and is located on the back of the card, near the signature area.

How does CVV prevent you from being a victim of fraud?

If correctly used, the CVV is highly effective against some forms of fraud. For example, if your data in the magnetic stripe is changed, the stripe reader will indicate a "damaged card" error and will not go ahead with the transaction

In other words, your unique Card Verification Value (CVV), will help you to prevent fraud. Most often it is a three-digit code that is calculated from your data on the magnetic strip and cannot be forged by simply knowing your Debit Card number. This number is never transferred during card swipes and should be known by no one else other than you. However, CVV cannot protect you from cyber crimes like phishing etc., where you willingly give away your information to fraud schemes.

Looking to get an HDFC Bank Debit Card? New customers can get a new Debit Card through opening a new Savings Account while experiencing hassle-free banking with HDFC Bank. Existing HDFC Bank customers can get their Debit Card reissued within minutes here.

Read more on the steps to apply for a Debit Card here.

* Terms & conditions apply. Debit Card approvals are at sole discretion of HDFC Bank Ltd. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances.